Super Eagles: What makes Akor Adams’ Tanzania test so crucial

Super Eagles forward Akor Adams will be hoping for a much-improved performance if he features in Friday’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Tanzania.

The Venezia striker endured a difficult outing in Nigeria’s previous two qualifiers, as the Super Eagles defeated Madagascar 2-1 before suffering a disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their second game.

The 26-year-old featured in both matches but failed to make the desired impact, struggling to influence proceedings and unable to get on the scoresheet.

Although he found the net in Nigeria’s 3-3 draw against Russia in a friendly game after both qualifiers, the Super Eagles forward will be eager to replicate that goalscoring feat.

He has returned to Eric Chelle’s latest squad and will be hoping to make the most of another opportunity to represent his country.

However, with competition for attacking places increasing and several forwards pushing for recognition, the Tanzania encounter presents an important opportunity for Adams to strengthen his position in the Super Eagles setup.

Super Eagles: Why the Tanzania game is important for Adams

1. An opportunity to show he can step up in Osimhen’s absence

One of the biggest opportunities Adams could have against Tanzania is the chance to demonstrate that he can lead Nigeria’s attack when Victor Osimhen is unavailable.

Osimhen’s importance to the Super Eagles is already well known, with the Galatasaray forward remaining the team’s leading attacking option whenever he is fit and available.

However, Nigeria cannot always depend on his availability, making it important for other forwards to prove that they can shoulder the goalscoring responsibility when required.

Adams has the physical qualities and attacking attributes to offer something different, but he must now begin to show consistency with his qualities.

He underperformed during the last round of qualifiers and must now improve on that performance to show that he can be relied on when Osimhen is absent.

A strong performance would strengthen his case as a reliable alternative in the Nigerian attack.

2. He needs to remain relevant amid increasing competition

Another reason the Tanzania encounter is important for Adams is the growing competition for places in the Super Eagles’ attack.

Several Nigerian forwards have been enjoying encouraging spells at their respective clubs, making it increasingly difficult for players to secure regular invitations.

The fact that in-form Kelechi Iheanacho was also left out of Chelle’s latest squad also shows the level of competition for attacking positions.

Adams must take advantage of the opportunities available to him and demonstrate that he deserves to remain part of Chelle’s plans.

A disappointing outing against Tanzania could make his position more difficult with other forwards waiting for their opportunity to impress.

However, a convincing display would give the coach another reason to keep him involved in future selections.

Adams failed to score in his previous appearance against Tanzania, when the Super Eagles recorded a 2-1 win in their opening game of the 2025 AFCON tournament. 

The 26-year-old will be hoping for a much better performance when both countries meet again, as Nigeria look to return to winning ways following their disappointing defeat to Guinea-Bissau.